Read More

Scores of devastated friends and family took to social media to pay tribute to him, with many quoting the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment’s motto ‘Nec Aspera Terrent’, which roughly translates as ‘Difficulties be Damned’.

British soldiers in Iraq (Image: Lewis Whyld/PA Wire)

Nicola Hetherington said the soldier’s family was ‘heartbroken’.

Nigel Hetherington posted on Facebook: “I’ll always love you kid. So proud of you it’s unreal. I’ll never forget you or your stories.

“You truly are one in a million. Sleep tight little bro. Look after nan for us until we meet again. Love you Scott, more than I ever let on.”

Amber Roberts posted: “What an impact you made on so many lives. I don’t think I’ve ever met anybody with a happier soul. You will be missed so much. Rest well. You will forever be in our hearts.”

Liam Jackson posted: “Scott Hetherington, you’re a little star. I’m absolutely gutted I’ve had my heart torn out. You never think anything like this will happen to any of your family. You did your country and your regiment proud.”

George Toolan added: “Another young life taken way too soon, serving and protecting our country.”

British soldiers were sent to Camp Taji ( map below ), north of Baghdad, in 2014 to help train Iraqi forces.

(Image: Google)

Members of the 2nd Battalion Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment, based at Weeton Barracks near Blackpool, are providing protection to other British troops training local security forces.